Name: Jenny Hudson
Age: 34
Location: Manchester born and bred. I had a brief 6 year stint in London but moved back up north 3 years ago.
Background: Strangely my background is more academic than design-orientated. I studied English at university and only really got into jewellery a few years ago. I'm afraid it's very boring and clichéd but it was something that started as a hobby and then progressed into a small business.
Inspiration: I think my main inspiration comes from books - from characters, periods of time and places that I've read about. Films and art also feature. Because I work with a lot of vintage components, sometimes the process begins when I find a new locket or charm. I then think about how it will work with other components and think about a finished 'look'.
Is this your full time job? As well as running Aurora Bloom I am also a director of web design company, Vanilla Storm. I work with my business partner and husband Richard and we create websites and online shops etc. for small companies.
Are you involved in any other crafty projects or organisations? I write for a blog called Indie Quarter. Indie Quarter is all about independent designers/makers/crafts and their funky quirky products. I'm also a founding member of the Manchester Craft Mafia.
Any tips for someone who wants to start making their own stuff? Have a go. Anyone can do it. I was hopeless at art and anything practical at school. You just need to find which crafts suit you best. There are lots of hints, tips and guides on the Internet and there are lots of online communities that can give you advice.
What music do you listen to? All kinds of things. I'm afraid I'm often behind the times and half the stuff in the charts I've never heard of. At the moment I'm quite into Lily Allen. I also sometimes listen to the taped radio show 'The Bradshaws'. It still makes me laugh, though I've heard all the stories umpteen times.
What is the nicest comment you've ever received about your work? A young woman wrote to me and told me that she wasn't really into jewellery. Her sister had bought her one of my necklaces and this had sparked an interest. Actually, I really appreciate any comments about my work. I think the fact that someone takes the time out of their day to say thank you or to say that they like something is pretty great.
What is your favourite item that you have made? My favourite items would have to be the Vintage Charm Necklace and the Chocolate Pearl Bracelet.
Can you recommend another designer? Francesca Salvini is a handbag designer and is based at Manchester Craft and Design Centre. She was originally part of Temporary Measure but now works solo. Her bags are just beautiful.
Anything else that you're interested in? I don't have much free time at the moment but I love to read. I'm currently reading 'Despite the Falling Snow' by Shamim Sarif.